Performing Arts

In the performing arts program, students benefit from the direction of faculty who are professionals in their fields. Students are inspired to tap into their own creativity and imagination while learning the skills and techniques of the various disciplines.

St. Johnsbury Academy’s acting class curriculum rivals that of many colleges. In addition to our classes, students attend professional productions and study with guest workshop teachers. There are three levels of study allowing students to receive a broad education in this very useful art form. Former students have used their skills in careers from Broadway to business and from teaching to politics.

At St. Johnsbury Academy, we offer a wide variety of musical groups for all levels of performers. The Music department consists of the large ensemble band and chorus, as well as several smaller ensemble groups, including string, guitar, jazz, and a select a cappella group, the Hilltones. We also offer courses in music theory and composition.

St. Johnsbury Academy offers a pre-professional dance program open to all students. Emphasis is on training the serious young dancer. In addition, the Academy dance program provides training and opportunities for interested non-dancers, novice dancers, and athletes. The dance offering is a well-rounded experience that offers serious training for those students with professional goals. Technique classes are offered in Modern Dance, specifically the Martha Graham Technique, and Ballet. Introductory training is offered for those students with an exploratory interest in movement and dance. Athletes find that dance offers a valuable enhancement for refining coordination, stretching, agility, rhythm, and level changes. Classes progress from a basic introduction to body placement and technique to an energetic, challenging, and healthful movement experience. Emphasis is on recognizing familiar body patterns and executing them with the precision and correct body awareness of the dancer or athlete. Students explore the common goals between dance and athletics, especially their shared focus on placement, rhythm, dynamic levels, traveling through space, and the critical use of stillness.

Advanced classes are offered for the serious dancer who is interested in acquiring and refining technique, and gaining performance experience. Master guest teachers are invited to teach, choreograph, and rehearse dancers throughout the school year. Guest teachers include principle and current soloists with major American and international ballet and modern dance companies. Guest choreographers are internationally acclaimed dancers/choreographers who come to St. Johnsbury Academy from their positions as directors and resident choreographers of major international dance companies.